Nathan Smith, known professionally as DJ Young Slade, was the 27-year-old son of the prominent rapper and producer Lil Jon (Jonathan Smith) and his former wife, Nicole Smith. A talented music producer, artist, and engineer, Nathan was a 2020 graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.The tragedy unfolded on the morning of February 3, 2026, when Nathan was reported missing from his residence in Milton, Georgia, located about 30 miles north of Atlanta. According to the Milton Police Department, he left his home on foot around 6:00 a.m. under "unusual circumstances" without his mobile phone. Authorities noted he appeared to be disoriented and in need of assistance, sparking an intensive multi-agency search that utilized K-9 units and dive teams.On February 6, 2026, at approximately 11:53 a.m., divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered a body from a pond in Mayfield Park, which is situated near Nathan's home. While official identification was pending from the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office, Lil Jon confirmed his son's death later that day.In a heartbreaking joint statement with Nicole Smith, Lil Jon described Nathan as the "kindest human being you would ever meet," characterizing him as immensely caring, thoughtful, and warmhearted. He expressed that the family was "devastated" but found comfort in having expressed their love and appreciation to him during their last moments together.Initial investigations by the Milton Police Department indicated no signs of foul play. However, the case remains an open and active investigation as authorities await the results of an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death.Nathan’s career was heavily influenced by his father; he began DJing at age 11 after being inspired by watching Lil Jon perform. Despite his father's fame, Nathan worked to build his own legacy, collaborating with artists like Ice Cube and releasing his most recent single, "Feels," in March 2025. He also appeared on television programs such as MTV's Family Legacy and ABC's Family Feud. Nathan is survived by his parents and his younger half-sister, Nahara, who was born in 2024. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-world-between-us--6886561/support.